Reno, Nev. – The Reno Air Racing Association will – for the first time ever – hold a donation funding campaign specifically aimed at increasing the Unlimited purse. RARA will direct all funds, minus 3rd party processing fees, from donations made to the “Increase the Unlimited purse” campaign received by Aug 31, 2017 to increasing the purse for the Unlimited Class at the 54th National Championship Air Races.

“We know and we understand that racing planes of these kinds is incredibly expensive,” John Agather, Chairman of the Reno Air Racing Association Board of Directors said. “Getting a plane to Reno – let alone racing it – requires hard work, sponsorship, dedication and a significant amount of resources. Over the years, we have heard from our fans, our racers and our classes that if we were able to raise the purse value, thus offsetting high participation costs, more planes would be able to come and compete. This fundraiser specifically targets the Unlimited Class because their purse has been cut in order to meet operational budgets.”

Individuals who are interested in donating to increase the value of the 2017 purse for the Unlimited Class can visit the Air Races website at airrace.org and donate by August 31, 2017. Checks may also be mailed to the RARA office at 14501 Mt. Anderson Street, Reno, NV 89506 with “Unlimited Purse Donation” in the memo line.

“Throughout the years – and in the face of adversity – we have done our best to maintain the value of the purse and this year, we are thinking outside the box,” Agather added. “All of our other classes have seen their purses remain intact or increase by a small amount. We firmly believe this fundraiser will help increase both racer and fan participation this year.”

Tickets are on sale for the 54th Annual National Championship Air Races held September 14-18, 2016 at Reno Stead Airport. For more information, or to volunteer, visit http://airrace.org.

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About the Reno Air Racing Association:

The Reno Air Racing Association (RARA), a 501(c)(3), holds the National Championship Air Races every September just north of Reno. The Reno Air Races have become an institution for northern Nevada and aviation enthusiasts from around the world. Last year’s event generated more than $66 million for the region’s economy. The event features six racing classes, a large display of static aircraft and several military and civil flight demonstrations. For more information on the National Championship Air Races, to obtain media credentials, volunteer or purchase tickets for this year’s event, visit www.airrace.org.

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The Reno Air Racing Association's mission is to perpetuate the most unique air racing event and aviation experience in the world by combining the world's fastest motor sport with spectacular military and civilian air entertainment.